Manchester United have been in talks with Franco Mastantuono's camp, but the Argentine midfielder isn't expected to be on the move this summer, according to Graeme Bailey.
Mastantuono is one of the most exciting young talents in world football and is expected to arrive in Europe soon. He has exploded in his homeland at River Plate, possessing an elegant playing style similar to Manchester City's Phil Foden.
The Red Devils are one of several clubs eyeing the 17-year-old and have made contact with his representatives. But a deal for the Argentina U20 international isn't likely to occur until 2026, and they are behind one of Europe's powerhouses in the race for the attacking midfielder.
Man United In Talks With Mastantuono
The Argentine starlet wants to join Real Madrid
Mastantuono's stock continues to grow, and he's developing into the latest South American gem who has been tipped to become 'the next Lionel Messi'. United face competition for the Azul-born attacker, with Real Madrid said to be frontrunners for the teenage wonderkid.
Bailey explained to United in Focus that United have "spoken to his people this week" but the youngster, who Juan Pablo Angel lauded as "an extraordinary talent", won't be moving until 2026, after he turns 18 in August. He added:
"United are in the running, but the plan wasn't for him to move this summer anyway. Real Madrid are in the driving seat, but United are not out of the equation."
The Red Devils beat Madrid to the signing of Leny Yoro last summer, which was seen as a massive coup given his status as a top defensive prospect. They may have to pull off a similar deal with the Santiago Bernabeu, his dream move:
"I don't think anyone will pay his €45m (£38m) release clause, though. But he really does want to join Madrid, however, we will have to see because there isn't really room for him at Madrid. But over the last 10 days, United have definitely held talks with him. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool are also interested."
| Appearances: | 11 |
| Goals: | 3 |
| Assists: | 4 |
| Big chances created: | 3 |
| Possession won (final third): | 1.1 |
| Balls recovered per game: | 3.5 |
| Successful dribbles: | 3.3 (51%) |
| Ground duels won: | 5.5 (44%) |
United will focus on strengthening Ruben Amorim's squad this summer with first-team-ready stars such as Wolverhampton Wanderers' Matheus Cunha and Ipswich Town's Liam Delap. Due to their reported release clauses, those two could cost collectively £92.5 million, and the club is already trying to balance its books.
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